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The Global Insight

What is it called when you graduate from a trade school?

Author

Robert Miller

Updated on April 02, 2026

What Is a Vocational Degree? A vocational degree is an academic certificate awarded to students who have completed the degree requirements for a specific trade or career.

Do trade school graduates make more than college graduates?

First, while college graduates earn more, on average, there are many occupations where trade workers earn more than degree holders. For example, the average secondary school teacher earns just $59,000. Because trade school takes far less time, graduates will have many more years to earn money.

Is it hard to get into trade school?

Trade schools are not particularly rigorous in their admission requirements and often only require applicants who have attained high school qualifications to submit their applications and to go through an interview and testing process. However, in some instances, the school may require previous occupational experience.

Are trade schools worth it?

The Value of Trade Schools in Today’s Economy. Entering a trade offers personal fulfillment, high salary potential, and job stability. Trade schools generally cost less and take less time than four-year college degrees. Trades are in high demand, but continuing education is essential to stay competitive.

Are trade schools better than college?

If you’re looking for job-specific skills, trade school is no doubt the better route, particularly when you factor in the cost of your education. However, if you’re interested in research or a general pursuit of knowledge, you may thrive in a traditional college setting.

What trade school job makes the most money?

Highest-paying trade careers

  1. Licensed practical nurse. National average salary: $25.18 per hour.
  2. HVAC technician. National average salary: $23.25 per hour.
  3. Home inspector. National average salary: $52,066 per year.
  4. Plumber.
  5. Electrician.
  6. Landscape designer.
  7. Boilermaker.
  8. Respiratory therapist.

What trade gets paid the most?

Highest-paying trade careers

  • Electrician.
  • Landscape designer.
  • Boilermaker.
  • Respiratory therapist.
  • Construction manager.
  • Dental hygienist. National average salary: $38.10 per hour.
  • Ultrasonographer. National average salary: $38.49 per hour.
  • Radiation therapist. National average salary: $115,241 per year.

What happens when you graduate from trade school?

Unlike a four-year college, you don’t graduate from a trade school with a bachelor’s degree. Usually, upon completion of the program, you’ll receive a diploma or trade certificate acknowledging you successfully finished.

What kind of college can you go to to go to trade school?

Four-Year Colleges. Four-year colleges can be public or private, and the vast majority are non-profit. After successfully finishing a program at a four-year college, you get a bachelor’s degree. This is the most versatile and highest degree you can get compared to degrees at trade schools and community colleges.

How much does it cost to go to trade school?

Community colleges tend to be the cheapest of all the college options. The average tuition and fees for a year at a public two-year college for in-district students is $3,660, and the average at a public four-year college for in-state students is $10,230. The average cost to complete a trade school degree (1-2 years) is $34,740.

What’s the shortest time you can go to trade school?

Trade school programs are the shortest; they run from less than a year to up to two years. As opposed to community colleges and four-year colleges, many vocational schools are for-profit businesses.